Since its founding in 1867, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has earned a reputation as a world-class leader in research, teaching, and public engagement. The University is a meeting place for great scholars, great ideas, and great accomplishments across a broad range of disciplines.

The University campus straddles the border between Champaign and Urbana (total population 180,000) in east-central Illinois. It is situated about 140 miles south of Chicago, 125 miles west of Indianapolis, and 180 miles northeast of St. Louis.

With a combined population of 105,000, Champaign-Urbana is large enough to support cultural and entertainment opportunities usually associated with major metropolitan areas, yet small enough to maintain its identity as a friendly, Midwestern community.

Leisure choices abound. Days can be spent going to museums or playing golf. Malls or neighborhood shops offer a variety of shopping experiences. Arts-lovers can choose between community theatre productions, nationally renowned acts, and a vibrant local music scene. Weekend getaways to Chicago, St. Louis and Indianapolis are within a three-hour interstate drive of Champaign-Urbana.